In a thought-provoking analysis, Al Ittihad Al Ichtiraki's cultural supplement delves into the concept of neoliberalism in Morocco, drawing inspiration from the works of French philosopher Michel Foucault. The article, penned by Mohamed Tazi, explores how Foucault's ideas can inform our understanding of neoliberalism in the Moroccan context. By examining the intersection of neoliberalism and governance, the author sheds light on the complexities of Morocco's contemporary trajectory.
Foucault's work provides a framework for understanding neoliberalism as a distinct moment in the evolution of the nation-state. Rather than viewing it as a linear progression or a radical departure from previous forms of governance, Foucault's lens reveals neoliberalism as a complex phenomenon that combines elements from various historical and cultural contexts. In Morocco, this has resulted in a unique blend of neoliberal policies, Islamic values, and imperial legacies.
The article highlights the concept of "non-intervention" as a key mechanism of governance in the neoliberal era. Foucault's work on this topic offers valuable insights into the ways in which states can exert control while appearing to retreat from direct intervention. In Morocco, this has played out in the context of the country's northern regions, where the state has established agencies like the Agence de Promotion et de Développement Economique et Social (APDN) to promote economic and social development.
The APDN, established in the late 1990s, has been instrumental in shaping the governance landscape in northern Morocco. Initially focused on showcasing the state's commitment to the region, the agency has since shifted its emphasis towards economic and social development. By fostering a "coordinated" and "integrated" approach to development, the APDN aims to address the region's socio-economic challenges and provide a model for regional development.
A closer examination of the APDN's activities reveals a complex dynamic of governance, where the state seeks to manage the region's informal economy while avoiding direct confrontation. By making certain activities "invisible," the state is able to exert control without appearing to intervene directly. This approach has significant implications for our understanding of neoliberal governance in Morocco and beyond.
The article also highlights the role of international actors, such as the European Union, in shaping Morocco's governance landscape. The EU's financial contributions to the APDN underscore the complex web of relationships that underpin neoliberal governance in Morocco. By examining these relationships, we gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which global forces influence local governance structures.
Ultimately, the article offers a nuanced exploration of neoliberalism in Morocco, one that highlights the complexities and contradictions of governance in the contemporary era. By engaging with Foucault's ideas and applying them to the Moroccan context, the author provides a rich and thought-provoking analysis that sheds new light on the country's trajectory.
Key points
- The intersection of neoliberalism and governance in Morocco is characterized by a complex dynamic of state intervention and non-intervention.
- The Agence de Promotion et de Développement Economique et Social (APDN) has played a key role in shaping the governance landscape in northern Morocco.
- International actors, such as the European Union, have significant influence over Morocco's governance structures.
